Suspected Naxalites last night set afire several vehicles including a Turbo truck, tractor and JCB machine near sand pier near Chapar in Burmu block in Ranchi. 

These vehicles and machines were engaged in illegal sand collection and sale in Ranchi district, it is learnt. 

The police reached the site on Wednesday morning. “ We are not sure whether the crime was a handiwork of Naxalites or anti social elements”, said the police.

It is suspected that the crime was committed for non payment of ransom demanded by the suspected Naxals. No person was reported to be injured in the incident, which took place at around 1.30 am on Wednesday night. 

Sand is in high demand by real estate builders. However, since the state government has not issued permit/issuance to mine it, sand is sold at heigh rates in black market.